As the days grow shorter, commuting in darker conditions is going to start becoming a reality for many of us again. Getting up in the dark and getting home in the dark isn’t an enjoyable experience. Shaking off that morning lethargy is far more difficult when the sun isn’t shining! Despite this, staying alert behind the wheel is imperative in reduced visibility. We feel your pain, though, so we’ve decided to put forward a couple of helpful tips for driving in the dark.

Turn your lights on early!

It’s a good idea to turn your headlights on at least an hour before sunset and an hour after sunrise. This ensures that other drivers can see you through all light-levels. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your headlights. During low-light periods such as twilight, it can really help you and other motorists avoid unnecessary accidents.

On top of this, make sure that all of your vehicle’s exterior lights are clean and fully functional. A dim or non-functioning light can cause confusion for other people on the roads which can lead to accidents. If you’re looking to replace some bulbs on a budget, consider a breaker yard. It could be a lot cheaper than a garage, especially if you’re confident in the installation of the bulbs!

Don’t dazzle other drivers.

When driving at night, especially on rural roads, it’s important to make use of your full beam headlights. However, make sure that you dip your headlights as soon as you notice an oncoming vehicle.

This prevents dazzling of the other driver, which can cause temporary confusion and lead to an accident.

If you’re dazzled, reduce your speed and avoid looking at the headlights. Try and keep your attention on the kerb until you are passed the car that is dazzling you.

It comes back to a core consideration of driving at night: before aware at all times and pay extra attention to your surroundings.

Be more mindful of fatigue during long journeys.

When travelling long distances at night, especially during the winter, be aware of levels of fatigue. If you feel yourself becoming tired or losing concentration, take a break. A strong coffee or even a brisk walk can get you the energy you need to finish your journey. Never attempt to drive through feelings of sleepiness or fatigue!

If you’re driving in these conditions, try and keep your mind active and alert. This could be through the radio, a podcast, or even just opening your window to let some cool air in.

It’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re getting tired, take a break!

We’ll have some more night-time driving tips coming your way in a later blog. For now, remember to prepare your car and get everything sorted before the days get too short! Whether you’re looking to replace a headlight bulb, get a new winter tyre, or replace some worn-out brake pads, a breaker yard is a cost-effective alternative!